Documentaries and chill?
If you’re getting a bit tired of endlessly scrolling through Netflix movies, try these films on for size.
Added plus: You might even accidentally learn something.
“The 13th”
Ava DuVernay’s latest documentary, “The 13th” sheds light on the prison industrial system and its relation to historical inequality in the United States. It’s titled after the 13th amendment which abolished slavery.
“Blackfish”
We can pretty much credit the downfall of Sea World to Gabriela Cowperthwaite’s “Blackfish,” which tells the story of Tilikum, a killer whale living in captivity that killed its trainer in 2010. The film discusses the dangers to humans and the orcas who are confined in theme parks.
“The Black Power Mixtape”
This 2011 documentary showcases the evolution of the Black Power Movement by using footage found 30 years after it was shot by Swedish journalists. It covers the time period between 1967 to 1975 and includes interviews from Angela Davis, Huey P. Newton and Eldridge Cleaver, along with others central to the movement.
“The Imposter”
This British-American documentary is about a French imposter, Frédéric Bourdin, who presents himself to a grieving family as their missing boy Nicholas Barclay — a 13-year-old from Texas who went missing.
“Room 237”
If you’ve ever wondered what mysteries lied behind Room 237 in Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining,” this is the film for you.
Each segment of the film, focuses on a specific element in “The Shining” and offers different interpretations.
“What Happened, Miss Simone?”
Academy Award-nominated “What Happened, Miss Simone” features previously unreleased footage and interviews with singer Nina Simone’s friends and family that tells the life story of the activist and music legend.
The film was also executive produced by Simone’s daughter, Lisa Simone Kelly.
“Into the Abyss”
Werner Herzog’s “Into the Abyss” focuses on capital punishment in Texas by profiling Michael Perry, a convicted killer on Death Row for the murder of a 50-year-old nurse, among other crimes.
Some of his interviews were filmed only eight days prior to his execution.
The documentary neither focuses on Perry’s innocence nor his guilt.
“Virunga”
This one is for all the animal lovers out there. “Virunga” focuses on four park rangers who risk their lives to protect critically endangered mountain gorillas from poachers in Congo’s Virunga National Park.
“Biggie & Tupac”
If you’ve ever been curious of the mysteries surrounding the deaths of two of rap’s most prominent artists, watch “Biggie & Tupac.”
While the documentary doesn’t give a clear answer of who killed the rap icons, the director suggests that Suge Knight was responsible for the latter’s murder.
“The Invisible War”
While the military is known for fighting our wars overseas, there’s one silent battle within the armed forces that few are talking about — sexual assault.
Kirby Dick’s “The Invisible War” features interviews with veterans who share their experiences of sexual assault in the U.S. military.
“Super Size Me”
This documentary can pretty much be credited for pushing McDonald’s to alter their menu to include more healthy items and getting rid of their super size option.
Morgan Spurlock takes on a 30-day challenge — he eats at least three meals a day for 30 days from McDonald’s. The film documents the changes that occur in his physical appearance, as well as his health.
“20 Feet From Stardom”
Most of us see backup singers providing support to the main act, but rarely do we recognize their talent.
This documentary follows backup singers like Judith Hill, Darlene Love and Merry Clayton and sheds light on their lives through behind-the-scenes footage.
“Hot Girls Wanted”
The appropriately titled doc features interviews with several young porn actresses, as they discuss their experiences in the industry.
